Here are some key highlights in Mr Baey’s response, one of which clarified he was simply doing his job as an MP:

As seen in the video clip which I received from a resident, there are several dogs and some residents will be concerned (in fact, the Town Council has received several emails asking for action). As their MP, it is my duty to assure them.

He also reinforced that culling is only reserved for extreme cases.

Culling is not the first action and used ONLY as a last resort. In fact, AVA just rolled out a Trap Neuter and Release Program. Please be assured that Tampines does not support culling of dogs.

However, dog lovers were still unconvinced the stray doggos would be fine.

Not everyone is against Mr Baey

Some have pointed out that Mr Baey has the responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. Otherwise – not only will he meet fierce criticism for abandoning his post – there will be no need for a MP in the first place.

To say that Mr Baey have no empathy for animals is certainly not the case here. If anything, Mr Baey simply prioritises his duty to his residents above anything else.

Also, given that AVA has protocols in place to ensure culling only occurs as a last resort, Mr Baey appears to be convinced that the stray dogs would not be inhumanely harmed. Hence, this ensures his residents are protected and their interests of protecting dogs are too.